Bringing Courage, Strength, and Grit to the fight against cancer.

Our History is His Story

John Wayne beat lung cancer in 1964. He died 15 years later after a struggle with cancer of the stomach. During this difficult period, he became passionate about helping others fight this terrible disease.

To honor his memory, his family created the John Wayne Cancer Foundation (JWCF) with the mission to bring courage, strength, and grit to the fight against cancer. JWCF funds novel and innovative programs that improve cancer patients' outcomes and save lives through research, education, awareness and support.

Continuing the Legacy

The John Wayne Cancer Foundation established the John Wayne Cancer Institute at Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica, CA and their research has led to groundbreaking procedures and treatments. JWCF also funds an innovative skin cancer awareness and prevention program for youth called Block the Blaze.

Looking to the Future

We're taking John Wayne's message of hope global to help fight cancer. Our innovating fundraising programs Team John Wayne and Join John Wayne are geared towards raising funds and creating awareness. Join the John Wayne Movement!

Programs

Making an impact to cure cancer and improve patient outcomes

Research

The John Wayne Cancer Foundation supports the research of JWCI's Alumni Fellows with Foundation backed research grants.

Education

The JWCI Surgical Oncology Fellowship is one of the largest surgical fellowship programs in the country, training the surgeons of tomorrow.

Awareness

1 in 5 Americans will get skin cancer at some point in their lifetime. Block the Blaze educates youth on awareness and prevention.

Support

Our passionate team supports the John Wayne Cancer Foundation family, and makes sure no one feels alone in their fight against cancer.